What do the initials "VS" stand for in medical terminology?

The initials "VS" stand for "Vital Signs" in medical terminology. Vital signs are essential measurements that provide critical information about a patient’s physiological status. This typically includes temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure. These indicators are fundamental in assessing a person's health, helping healthcare providers to monitor and respond to changes in a patient's condition effectively.

The significance of vital signs cannot be overstated, as they are often one of the first steps in evaluating a patient’s health during both routine check-ups and emergency situations. By understanding and accurately measuring vital signs, healthcare professionals can establish baseline health conditions and recognize trends or anomalies that could indicate medical issues.